There are untold benefits to surfing and we should all pay attention when someone who is a seasoned surfer imparts their words of wisdom, as they’ve experienced the sea in ways we can’t understand. It might not be something you’d normally think of, but there are plenty of reasons to give it a go, especially if it’s something you’ve never tried before.
I was once given a lecture – albeit an inspiring one – by an ex surfer from Wales that led me to get onto my first board and I’ve been surfing many times since as a result. Below are 5 of the reasons he gave me and why I think they matter.
1. Reconnect with the ocean
The seas and oceans of the world remain relatively unexplored and because of this their allure is as strong as it has ever been. Even in the warm shallow shores the mystery of the deep is present. As we live on land we don’t often get the opportunity to experience the sea, regardless of the means.
Surfing brings you incredibly close to the core emotions that are often associated with the ocean as there are very few things between you and the experience – there’s you, the board and the deep blue sea beneath you.
2. Learn a new skill
Learning how to surf is both simple and challenging. The initial attempts at surfing are quite difficult, but once you’re over the hump there’ll be no stopping you. There are plenty of places to take lessons, Wales being one of them. The surfer who recommended it to me suggested trying out some of the Welsh coasts to find accredited and experienced surfing instructors that can take you through the paces on your surfing holiday – more information and guidance on where to look can be found here.
Learning something new while on holiday is actually something that you can really be proud of and it’s a lot nicer than just lazing about on the beach (although I’m sure you’ll be wanting to do this after a week of hard surfing!)
3. Surf culture
The surfing subculture is among the most famous subcultures on the planet and spans back decades if not centuries (looking back to tribes that used to ‘surf’ ceremonially). There was never a friendlier bunch and if you take to the sea with an open mind you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
It’s not always easy to get started and the veterans realise this and will, more often than not, take you under their wing and show you the ropes – at one time or another they had never been on a surfboard themselves.
4. Beautiful locations
There are some lovely places to surf in the world and this, alone, is a great reason to want to have a go. It’s one thing looking out to sea from the beach, but when you’re 100 feet out to sea and you’ve got a wave behind you, the land has never appeared more beautiful.
Be it in the scorching sun of Australia or the cooler and more temperate British coasts, there is a beach and a swell for everyone whether you’re a pro or a first-timer.
Have you got any great reasons as to why people should go surfing or had any amazing experiences that you just have to shout about? Give us your opinion in the comments.
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Photo by chausinho on Flickr